Morocco has elevated the status of its relations with Israel, and is now reaping the benefits: an Israeli recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara and a request to purchase F-35s from the US.
According to sources in Rabat, Morocco is considering the purchase of fifth-generation F-35 fighter jets to enhance its capabilities vis-à-vis its neighbor Algeria.
The two countries are engaged in an ongoing dispute concerning the sovereignty of the Western Sahara territory, which Morocco claims as its own.
While Algeria upgraded its Air Force with fourth-generation aircraft like the SU-30 and MiG-29, the Moroccan Air Force still operates third-generation planes such as the F-16, F-5, and Mirage F-1.
Therefore, while maintaining close relations with Israel, Morocco seeks to acquire F-35 aircraft. Sources in Rabat reported that King Mohammed IV expressed his desire to equip his Air Force with these planes.
A meeting between Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz and his Moroccan counterpart, Abdelltif Loudiyi, in November 2021, strengthened defense agreements between the two countries.
On July 17th of this year, Israel announced recognition of Morocco's sovereignty over Western Sahara, further solidifying the ties between the two nations. Israel has a long history of strategic partnership with Morocco, which provided sensitive intelligence information to Israel before the Six-Day War, playing a crucial role in defeating Egypt and Syria, and having a discreet alliance with Mossad.
Simultaneously with Morocco's interest in purchasing advanced combat aircraft, Algeria might acquire fifth-generation Sukhoi SU-57 fighter jets from Russia. Experts estimate that the first deal for purchasing fifth-generation fighter aircraft in Africa might occur between 2027 and 2030, and it will likely involve a limited number of aircraft to maintain the military balance in Northwestern Africa.
Image - IDF Spokesperson’s Unit